Career Fair Prep

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Transcript of Career Fair Prep

Career Fair Prep Michelle BergUniversity Career Center NameArea of studyYour career interestsA question Don't focus on the giveaways. Work on an "elevator pitch" What would you say to someone if you only had 30 seconds? What happens at a career fair? Exchange of information Networking = Do your research Social media Let's Practice! 2) Find a partner and take turns being the employer and the student 1) Take notes and write out your elevator pitch Career Fair Myths (debunked) Career fairs are only for graduating seniors Career fairs are scary! If I go to a career fair, I'll walk away with a job/internship I don't belong at a career fair because I don't know what I'm doing Career fairs are only for business students Asking Questions Open vs. closed Closed cuts off conversation Open probes for more information Make it meaningful! Information they've mentionedResearch you've doneCompany values/cultureYour own qualifications Ask employers quality questions based on : One or two questions is sufficient as to not monopolize their time. What should I say? Introductions New contacts Determining fit Fastest ways to not rock a career fair: Wear a lot of bright colorsSport your fancy flip-flops, sweatshirt, & jeansLeave your resume at home Overpower employers with your cologne/perfumeHand over your resume without saying a wordAct timid, nervous, and self-conscious Take all the pretty giveaway goodiesAsk "Do you have any jobs?"Stroll in fashionably late...a half hour before the fair endsNeglect to follow up with the people you met Career Connection Company pages Google News Outline Phase 3: After the fair Phase 1: Before the fair Phase 2: During the fair View Attending Organizations Search "Career Fairs & Events" for attending organizations Once you've selected an event, you can view attending organizations, review employer profiles, and view posted positions. Professional Business Attire for Women BusinessAttire for Men We've seen some things at career fairs that are NOT pretty

(or professional) Examples: Tips for everyone! Appearance Conservative colorsTasteful accessoriesGo easy on the cologne/perfume/ body spray Clean and neat hair and nailsWear a suit if possibleClean, pressed clothesFit = Not baggy or tight Suit: skirt or pants in a conservative colorA dress with blazer can be appropriateDressy blouseFlats or heels are fineWear nylons with skirt or dressTasteful makeup and accessoriesHint of color with your suitAppropriate necklines and hemlinesWear comfortable shoes (if they don't fit, we can tell) Pantsuit in a conservative colorTie (classy- not loud!)Solid button-downDark socks go with dark shoesTake out visible body piercings Don't wear an out-of-date suit Upcoming Career Fairs: Nursing & Health Sciences Career ExpoMarch 4 from 11:30-2 in Magnolia GACE College-to-Career FairApril 10 from 11-3 in AtlantaCobb Galleria Career Expo & Interview DayMarch 11 from 11-2 in MagnoliaInterviews from 2:30-4:30 (must preregister to interview) What can I expect? Registration HR professionalsAlumniDepartment managersCEO or President (rare) Review handouts Survey the room and layout Locate your target employers Collect information Who staffs the tables? It starts with a handshake. Make sure your handshake is firmPalm-to-palm2-3 pumps are appropriate No fishy business! No death grip! Let's Practice! Give each other feedback! Practice your handshake with two other people What's next after you introduce yourself? Tips before the fair Get plenty of rest before the fair Practice! Make notes about your qualifications, what you're looking for, and your questions Use a professional portfolio pad Bring several (15+) copies Print your resume on resume paper Prepare your outfit in advance How to leave it Exchange information (your resume, their business card) Respect their time and the time of your peers. Wait your turn. And now for some general tips.... Follow up: Send a thank out email letting the employer know you've applied.

Attach a resume if you were unable to apply online but want to be considered for future positions.

After two weeks, call the employers who have not contacted you. It's appropriate to connect with a new contact on LinkedIn.

Mention meeting at the career fair in your invitation. 1) Confirm receipt of your resume 2) Restate interest 3) Get an idea of their interview timeline Thank you!

Thank them for their time and reestablish your interest Know their timeline before your leave Shake hands again Note: Some companies have policies about accepting resumes If you're interested, apply!